1.5-Hour Kyoto Insider Sake Experience with 7 Tastings & Pairings
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About this experience
Uncover the little-known sake culture of Fushimi, Kyoto on a 90 min sake tasting and food pairing session with a certified Sake Sommelier. Enjoy the samples of different types of sake, and learn about different varieties of sake with the personalized attention from your guide on this small-group activity.
This is a fun and educational experience to change your way of enjoying sake.
If you love sake but don't know what to select or want to know more about sake, join us and let's deep dive into the world of sake.
After this experience, you will know which type of sake you like, and you will be able to select your favorite sake from labels or restaurant menus even if they are all written in Japanese.
Available options
1:30pm 90MIN Sake Tasting
Basic Sake Learning<br/>Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes<br/>7 Sake Tasting + Food Pairing
12:00 PM 90 MIN Sake Tasting
Basic Sake Learning<br/>Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes<br/>7 Sake Tasting + Food Pairing
3:30pm 90MIN Sake Tasting
Basic Sake Learning<br/>Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes<br/>7 Sake Tasting + Food Pairing
4:30 PM 90 MINS Sake Tasting
Basic Sake Learning<br/>Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes<br/>7 Sake Tasting + Food Pairing
11:30am 90MIN Sake Tasting
Basic Sake Learning<br/>Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes<br/>7 Sake Tasting + Food Pairing
5:30pm 90MIN Sake Tasting
Basic Sake Learning<br/>Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes<br/>7 Sake Tasting + Food Pairing
What's included
Otsumami (traditional Japanese appetizers) for food pairing
Guided by a certified Sake Sommelier
Dedicated private sake tasting room
Sake tasting (7 types selected by a sake sommelier)
Sake cheat sheet and tasting note to help you choose your preferred sake
Detailed itinerary
1
・Sake Tasting with an Expert
Through our expert-led tasting session, you'll get the chance to learn the unique characteristics of different varieties of sake, discovering which type you most prefer and how to identify your favourites on menus and bottle labels.
・Food Pairing
You’ll also be served various otsumami – Japanese snacks which traditionally accompany alcohol – so you can see which types of food and flavour best accompany the different sake types.
This is a fun and educational sake tasting in Kyoto. Recommended to join this experience at the beginning of your trip in Japan!
What's not included
Transportation to/from attractions
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Written guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
46 reviews
5★
46
4★
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3★
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Tripadvisor
5.0
237 reviews
5★
227
4★
10
3★
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Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Legal drinking age in Japan is 20; customers under 20 years of age will only be served non-alcoholic drinks
For safety and legal reasons, alcohol will not be served to guests who arrive by car or bicycle (non-alcoholic drinks available). No refunds if unable to participate in the sake tasting.
Guests without a reservation (including children and non-drinkers) will not be allowed to join the tour
Vegetarian option for snacks is available, please tell your guide on site
Recommended to have your lunch or brunch prior to the tour.
Meeting point
25 min from JR Kyoto Station : Take a train on Kintetsu Line to Momoyamagoryo-Mae Station. Walk for 9 min from the station.
20 min from Gion-Shijo Station : Take a train on Keihan Line to Chushojima Station. Walk for 7 min from the station.
20 min from Fushimi-Inari Station
Important notes
Thank you for booking!
【PLEASE NOTE】
If you are late for more than 10 minutes, you cannot join the tour.
*Please come to the meeting point 10 min before the starting time. Out of respect for other guests and to ensure the best tour for everyone, we must start the tour on time. You will not be able to join the tour, get refund or rescheduled if you are late for the tour and missed the group. Taking public transportation may take longer than you expect so give yourself extra time not to be late. Your respect for other guests is much appreciated.
【 Meeting point 】
AMAZAKE HOUSE
https://goo.gl/maps/ZCauCKPEca2kpbnq5
Address : 〒612-8365 ２７１−１Kurumamachi, Fushimi ward, Kyoto
(京都府京都市伏見区車町２７１−１)
-25 min from JR Kyoto Station : Take a train on Kintetsu Line to Momoyamagoryo-Mae Station. Walk for 9 min from the station.
-20 min from Gion-Shijo Station : Take a train on Keihan Line to Chushojima Station. Walk for 7 min from the station.
Here is a schedule for the experience;
* Meet at Amazake House
* Greet and introduce each other
* Learn what makes the differences of sake
* Taste the differences of various flavors
* Deepen knowledge of different categories
* Get to know your favorite type of sake
* Enjoy otsumami, snacks that we eat when drinking
* Feel free to order more sake at your cost
*******
Please note..
- The venue for sake tasting session may be varies due to its availabilities
- Let the guide know at the site if you have any food preference or any allergy
- Recommended to have your lunch or breakfast prior to the experience
- Please note there may be additional people joining and total members could be around 12 people
We created a map of neighborhood we are visiting at the tour with places to go and eat before/after the experience. Feel free to ask us in person on the day of the tour for the recommendation too!
https://drive.google.com/open?id=1Vfr3yBVOSjSWYyNuT1iFfGH8dPdJmY1z&usp=sharing
Look forward to seeing you!
Kotaro
About Kyoto
Kyoto, once the imperial capital of Japan, is a city rich in history, culture, and tradition. Known for its numerous classical Buddhist temples, as well as gardens, imperial palaces, Shinto shrines, and traditional wooden houses, Kyoto offers a unique blend of ancient and modern Japan. The city is a must-visit for travelers seeking to experience the heart of Japanese heritage.
Top Attractions
Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)
A Zen Buddhist temple covered in gold leaf, Kinkaku-ji is one of Kyoto's most iconic landmarks. The temple's top two floors are completely covered in gold leaf, reflecting beautifully on the surrounding pond.
Historical/Religious
1-2 hours
¥400
Fushimi Inari Taisha
Famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates, Fushimi Inari Taisha is a Shinto shrine dedicated to Inari, the god of rice. The trails leading up the mountain offer stunning views of Kyoto.
Religious
2-4 hours (depending on how far you hike)
Free
Kiyomizu-dera
A historic wooden temple with a large veranda supported by massive wooden pillars, Kiyomizu-dera offers panoramic views of Kyoto. The temple is particularly famous for its spring and autumn foliage.
Religious
1-2 hours
¥400
Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
A stunning grove of bamboo, Arashiyama is one of Kyoto's most famous natural attractions. The towering bamboo stalks create a surreal and peaceful atmosphere.
Nature
1-2 hours
Free (Tenryu-ji Temple costs ¥500)
Gion
Kyoto's most famous geisha district, Gion is known for its traditional wooden machiya houses, teahouses, and the chance to spot geishas and maikos (apprentice geishas).
Cultural
1-2 hours (longer if dining or attending a cultural event)
Free to explore (dining and cultural events can be expensive)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Kaiseki Ryori
A traditional multi-course Japanese meal that emphasizes seasonality and presentation. Each dish is carefully prepared and artfully presented.
Dinner
Often includes fish, meat, and vegetables, but vegetarian options are available.
Yudofu (Tofu Hot Pot)
A Kyoto specialty featuring tofu simmered in a light kombu (kelp) broth, often served with vegetables and condiments.
Lunch/Dinner
Vegetarian-friendly, can be made vegan if broth is vegetable-based.
Matcha Desserts
Kyoto is famous for its high-quality matcha (green tea) powder, used in various desserts like ice cream, parfaits, and wagashi (traditional sweets).
Dessert
Vegetarian and vegan options available.
Obanzai
Home-style Kyoto dishes made with fresh, local ingredients, often featuring vegetables, fish, and tofu.
Lunch/Dinner
Can be adapted to various dietary preferences.
Popular Activities
Hiking in the mountains
Cycling through the countryside
Rafting on the Hozu River
Onsen (hot spring) visits
Tea ceremonies
Scenic walks in gardens and parks
Temple and shrine visits
Traditional tea ceremonies
Best Time to Visit
March to May (Spring), October to November (Autumn)
Spring and autumn offer pleasant weather and are the best times to visit for cherry blossoms and autumn foliage. These seasons also see the highest tourist volumes.
15°C to 25°C (Spring), 10°C to 20°C (Autumn)
59°F to 77°F (Spring), 50°F to 68°F (Autumn)
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Japanese
- Widely spoken: English (limited)
- English: Limited/Rare
Currency
Japanese Yen (JPY)
Time Zone
JST (UTC+9)
Electricity
100VV, 50/60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Very safe
Kyoto is a very safe city with a low crime rate. Violent crime is rare, and petty crime is uncommon. However, as with any tourist destination, it's important to take basic precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas
- • Use reputable tour operators and taxis
Getting there
By air
- Kansai International Airport • 115 km from Kyoto
- Osaka International Airport (Itami) • 40 km from Kyoto
By train
Kyoto Station
By bus
Kyoto Station Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the most extensive and affordable way to get around Kyoto. They cover most areas of the city and are especially useful for reaching temples and shrines.
Taxis
Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, INDRIVER
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Gion
Higashiyama
Arashiyama
Downtown Kyoto (Shijo-Kawaramachi)
Day trips
Nara
40 km from Kyoto • Half day to full day
Nara is a historic city known for its ancient temples, shrines, and the famous Nara Park, home to hundreds of free-roaming deer.
Uji
20 km from Kyoto • Half day
Uji is a small city known for its historic temples, beautiful riverside scenery, and high-quality matcha (green tea).
Kurama and Kibune
25 km from Kyoto • Full day
Kurama and Kibune are two neighboring villages in the mountains north of Kyoto, known for their hot springs, hiking trails, and scenic beauty.
Festivals
Gion Matsuri • July (main events on July 17th and 24th)
Jidai Matsuri • October 22nd
Aoi Matsuri • May 15th
Pro tips
- Visit popular attractions like Fushimi Inari Taisha and Kinkaku-ji early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds.
- Consider purchasing a Kyoto City Bus Pass or other transportation passes to save money on getting around the city.
- Try local specialties like yudofu (tofu hot pot), matcha desserts, and obanzai (home-style Kyoto dishes).
- Explore the city's many temples and shrines, but don't forget to take time to enjoy the natural beauty of Kyoto's gardens and parks.
- Learn a few basic Japanese phrases to enhance your experience and show respect for local customs and traditions.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
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Free cancellation available
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